France 1 – 1 England

Man of the Match: Mathieu Debuchy. Playing in the injured Bacary Sagna’s absence, the Lille right-back added to his valuation, amid reported interest in his signature, with an imposing display. The 26-year-old demonstrated lung-busting energy down the right flank, with his impetus giving the usually unnerved Ashley Cole much to consider. One to watch throughout the tournament.

France verdict: Not as impressive as expected. The game itself was largely sluggish, perhaps in part down to the heat but also courtesy of some ponderous passing by Les Bleus. At the back they looked iffy, with the centre-back pairing of Philippe Mexes and Adil Rami unconvincing. That said, going forward there is so much potential, and the likes of Karim Benzema and goalscorer Samir Nasri reiterated that threat.

England verdict: ‘Fine’ almost covers it. Roy Hodgson’s men were largely as expected. They defended deep, which was at times their downfall, in particular for Nasri’s leveller. There were positives, though, as Danny Welbeck led the line well, while Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain offered at least some excitement with his confident dribbling. Expectations should remain at their current lowly level.

Could do better: Referee Nicola Rizzoli. England hat removed, it was a very poor showing from the referee. He waved away countless appeals from the men in white for what seemed clear fouls by the French. In particular, Yohan Cabaye somehow escaped a booking despite tallying a number of cynical clips of ankles.

Stat attack: France have failed to win any of their last eight games at major tournaments.